How to get from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva

Traveling from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva is a popular shore excursion along Montenegro’s Adriatic coast. Budva is approximately 23–25 km from Kotor, with journeys usually taking 30–60 minutes. Travelers can choose a direct bus, taxi, private transfer, rental car, or guided excursion. This guide covers estimated fares, booking options, departure points, and return-trip tips.

At A Glance (Kotor Cruise Port to Budva)

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Cheapest / Most Economical: Take the direct bus from Kotor Bus Station to Budva. Tickets usually cost around €4–6 per person, making it an affordable choice for independent cruise passengers.
• Fastest / Most Convenient: Choose a taxi from Kotor Cruise Port. The drive typically takes around 30–50 minutes, and you can be dropped near Budva Old Town without changing transportation.
• Best for Families / Groups: A pre-booked private transfer offers convenient port pickup, space for luggage or child seats when arranged, and a confirmed return journey.
• Most Flexible Schedule: A rental car is suitable for travelers who want to explore Budva, Jaz Beach, Becici or Sveti Stefan independently.
• Best for Sightseeing: Book a guided shore excursion that includes Budva’s medieval Old Town, coastal viewpoints and other attractions along the Budva Riviera.
• Best for Cruise Passengers with Limited Time: A private round-trip transfer or organized excursion makes it easier to coordinate return transportation with your ship’s all-aboard deadline.
• Best for Independent Travelers: The direct bus works well when your ship has a long port call and you have sufficient time to walk to the station, wait for departures and return comfortably.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Confirm whether your ship docks or tenders: Kotor Cruise Port has berths near the Old Town and offshore anchorages. Ships at anchor use tender boats, which can add time to disembarkation. Check the official Port of Kotor cruise information and your ship’s instructions.
• Allow extra time for summer traffic: The Kotor–Budva road can become congested during the summer cruise season, particularly near Kotor’s tunnels, intersections and Budva’s approaches. A 30-minute drive may take an hour or longer during busy periods.
• Book bus tickets or check departures early: Use BusTicket4.me to compare scheduled buses. Some tickets can be purchased online, while others are available at the station. Check whether a printed ticket is required.
• Carry euros in cash: Montenegro uses the euro (€). Small notes and coins are helpful for station fees, luggage charges, taxis, parking and smaller purchases.
• Arrange your return before sightseeing: If traveling by bus, check the Budva-to-Kotor return timetable before leaving Kotor. If hiring a taxi, agree on the pickup location, return time and total fare in advance.
• Use licensed taxis or local booking apps: Uber and Bolt do not currently operate in Montenegro. Consider MonteGO, a local taxi company or a prearranged driver. Confirm the quoted price and payment method before boarding.
• Plan for Budva Old Town access: Budva’s historic Old Town is pedestrianized. Buses stop at Budva Bus Station, while taxis and private vehicles use nearby accessible streets. Expect some walking to reach the medieval walls, Citadel and waterfront.
• Keep a generous cruise return buffer: Aim to reach the Kotor port area at least 60–90 minutes before your ship’s all-aboard deadline, or earlier when required by the cruise line. If your ship uses tenders, allow additional time for the final tender service.

🚌 Option #1 — Direct Bus (Cheapest & Best Value)

Low cost Frequent departures Traffic-dependent

• Overview: Walk from Kotor Cruise Port near the Old Town to Kotor Bus Station (Autobuska stanica Kotor), then take a direct intercity bus to Budva Bus Station (Autobuska stanica Budva). From Budva Bus Station, walk approximately 15–20 minutes to Budva Old Town and the waterfront.
• Distance: Approximately 23–27 km by road, depending on the route and the exact departure and arrival points.
• Travel time: Scheduled bus journeys generally take approximately 30–60 minutes, with an average advertised journey around 45 minutes. Allow another 10–15 minutes to walk from the cruise port to Kotor Bus Station and 15–20 minutes from Budva Bus Station to the Old Town.
• How to book (with price): Compare direct buses on BusTicket4.me’s Kotor to Budva timetable. Listed one-way tickets are commonly around €4–6 per adult, depending on the operator. Station service fees and luggage charges may be additional.
• Departure frequency: Multiple intercity bus companies operate between Kotor and Budva. Daytime services are relatively frequent, but departure times and seat availability vary by season and date.
• Departure point: Kotor Bus Station, south of Kotor Old Town and within walking distance of the main cruise port.
• Arrival point: Budva Bus Station, located inland from the waterfront and approximately 1–1.5 km from Budva Old Town.
• Ticketing: Some operators accept electronic tickets, while others may require a printed ticket. Follow the instructions on your booking and check at the bus station if uncertain.
• Return journey: Buses also operate from Budva to Kotor. Check the return schedule before leaving the port, allowing extra time for road traffic and cruise embarkation.
• Pros: Lowest cost, established intercity route, and no need to arrange a private vehicle. Cons: Walking to and from bus stations, possible queues, station fees, and unpredictable summer traffic.

Step-by-step: Direct Bus from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva

1. Disembark at Kotor Cruise Port: If your ship is docked, follow signs through the passenger area toward Kotor’s waterfront. If your ship is anchored in the bay, take the cruise tender to the designated landing point first.
2. Check the bus schedule: Before leaving the port, open the Kotor to Budva bus timetable to compare departures and available tickets.
3. Walk toward Kotor Bus Station: From the main port entrance near the Old Town’s Sea Gate, follow the road south toward the bus station. The walk generally takes approximately 10–15 minutes.
4. Find the ticket counter: At Kotor Bus Station, confirm the next direct departure to Budva. If you have not booked online, purchase a ticket at the counter.
5. Confirm luggage and ticket requirements: Ask whether your ticket must be printed and whether any station or luggage fee is payable separately.
6. Find the correct bus: Check the departure board, platform information or ask station staff for the bus heading to Budva. Several operators serve the route, so use the departure time printed on your ticket.
7. Board the bus: Present your ticket and store luggage as instructed. Arrive at the platform a few minutes before departure.
8. Travel toward Budva: The bus follows the main road corridor through the hills and coastal approaches between Kotor and Budva. Some departures may travel through or near additional settlements.
9. Arrive at Budva Bus Station: Get off at the main bus station and follow pedestrian directions toward Budva Old Town.
10. Walk to Budva Old Town: Allow approximately 15–20 minutes to reach the historic walls. You can explore the old streets, Citadel, waterfront and nearby beaches.
11. Return to Kotor: Check the Budva to Kotor return buses, allowing plenty of time for potential traffic delays.
12. Rejoin your cruise ship: Walk back from Kotor Bus Station to the port, complete any required security procedures and return before your ship’s all-aboard time.

Getting to the main departure points (Kotor Bus Station / Budva Bus Station)

• Kotor Cruise Port: Located immediately outside the medieval Old Town, close to the Sea Gate and waterfront promenade.
• Kotor Sea Gate: A useful landmark for orienting yourself after leaving the port. The bus station is south of this area.
• Kotor Bus Station: The main intercity bus terminal is approximately 800 m–1 km from the cruise port, generally a 10–15-minute walk.
• Budva Bus Station: The principal arrival point for intercity services. Follow signs toward the waterfront and historic center after disembarking.
• Budva Old Town: Located near the marina and medieval walls, approximately 15–20 minutes on foot from the bus station.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #2 — Taxi from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva (Fastest Door-to-Door)

Direct ride Group-friendly Agree on fare

• Overview: Take a licensed taxi directly from the Kotor Cruise Port area to a convenient drop-off point near Budva Old Town. This avoids walking to the bus station and is especially practical for couples, families and small groups.
• Distance: Approximately 23–25 km by road, depending on the chosen route and destination.
• Travel time: Approximately 30–50 minutes in normal conditions. During busy summer periods, allow 60 minutes or longer because traffic can build up around Kotor and Budva.
• How to book (with price): Ask port staff to direct you to a licensed taxi, contact a local taxi company or use the MonteGO taxi booking service for Kotor Cruise Port. Budget approximately €25–45 one-way per vehicle, although port pickups and peak-season quotes may be higher. Agree on the price or confirm the meter before departure.
• Ride-hailing alternatives: Uber and Bolt do not operate in Montenegro. Local taxi apps such as MonteGO, licensed taxi dispatchers and companies accepting Viber or WhatsApp bookings are more practical alternatives.
• Pickup point: Taxis typically collect passengers from approved roadside areas outside the cruise pier, near the port entrance and Sea Gate. Confirm the exact location with the driver.
• Drop-off: Ask for Budva Old Town, the marina or another vehicle-accessible point close to the medieval walls. The Old Town itself is pedestrianized.
• Round-trip option: Ask your driver to quote a return journey with an agreed Budva pickup time. This can be more convenient than searching for another taxi after sightseeing.
• Payment: Cash in euros is recommended. Card payments are not guaranteed in every taxi, so confirm before departure.
• Pros: Fast, direct, convenient for groups and suitable for travelers with limited time. Cons: More expensive than the bus, fares may require negotiation, and road congestion can cause delays.

Step-by-step: Taxi from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva

1. Leave the cruise ship: Complete disembarkation and proceed toward the main port entrance. If your ship is anchored offshore, allow time for tender transportation.
2. Find the taxi pickup area: Follow the waterfront road near the Kotor Sea Gate and look for designated taxi or private vehicle pickup locations outside the port.
3. Choose a licensed taxi: Ask port staff for a recommended operator or check taxi pickup options through MonteGO.
4. Confirm the price: Tell the driver you want to visit Budva Old Town and ask for the total one-way fare. If planning to return with the same driver, negotiate the complete round-trip price.
5. Save your driver’s contact details: Exchange a phone number or agree on a return meeting point before departing Kotor.
6. Travel toward Budva: The driver will normally use the main road through the hills south of Kotor toward the Budva Riviera.
7. Arrive near Budva Old Town: Ask to be dropped near the marina or an accessible street close to the medieval walls.
8. Explore Budva: Walk through the Old Town, visit the waterfront and enjoy the surrounding coastal scenery.
9. Return to Kotor: Contact your original driver or arrange another licensed taxi. If no local taxi is available, consider the Budva to Kotor bus as an alternative, provided it fits your cruise schedule.
10. Reach the port: Ask the driver to return you to Kotor Cruise Port near the Sea Gate, allowing enough time for security checks and ship boarding.

Getting to the main departure points (Kotor Cruise Port / Taxi Pickup)

• Kotor Cruise Pier: The main cruise berths are immediately outside Kotor Old Town. Follow passenger signs toward the terminal exit.
• Kotor Sea Gate: A convenient reference point for arranging taxi pickup close to the port.
• Waterfront Road: Licensed taxis and pre-booked vehicles may collect passengers along approved roadside pickup areas near the cruise terminal.
• Budva Marina: A convenient drop-off area for travelers visiting Budva Old Town and the waterfront.
• Budva Old Town Entrance: A useful destination to provide to your driver if you want to begin sightseeing immediately.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚙 Option #3 — Pre-Booked Private Transfer (Most Convenient for Families)

Pre-arranged pickup Flexible schedule Higher cost

• Overview: Arrange a private car, SUV or minivan from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva. Unlike a regular taxi taken on arrival, a pre-booked transfer can include a scheduled pickup, a fixed quote and an agreed return journey.
• Distance: Approximately 23–25 km by road between central Kotor and Budva.
• Travel time: Approximately 30–50 minutes each way in normal conditions, with extra time needed during peak summer congestion.
• How to book (with price): Compare private transportation through GetTransfer’s Kotor transfer listings or ask your cruise line or hotel for a recommended provider. Budget approximately €35–70+ one-way per vehicle, depending on the service, vehicle type, waiting time and travel date.
• Pickup: Provide the operator with your ship’s name, arrival date and estimated disembarkation time. Confirm the exact meeting point outside the restricted cruise pier.
• Vehicle options: Private transfers may offer sedans, larger vehicles or minivans. Ask about child seats, wheelchair requirements or oversized luggage before booking.
• Return arrangements: A round-trip booking is particularly useful for cruise passengers. Agree on the pickup location in Budva and allow substantial time before your ship’s deadline.
• Optional stops: Some operators may allow a short stop at Jaz Beach or a Budva Riviera viewpoint, but confirm extra charges and travel time.
• Payment: Check whether payment is required online, upon pickup or at the end of the journey. Confirm the currency and cancellation terms.
• Pros: Predictable pickup, direct travel, group convenience and flexible return arrangements. Cons: Higher cost than buses and possible cancellation or waiting charges if the ship arrives late.

Step-by-step: Private Transfer from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva

1. Choose a transfer provider: Search for private transfers from Kotor and select a vehicle appropriate for your group.
2. Provide cruise information: Enter your ship’s name, docking or tender details, arrival date and expected pickup time.
3. Specify your destination: Choose Budva Old Town, Budva Marina or your hotel as the drop-off point.
4. Request a complete quote: Confirm the total cost, passenger capacity, waiting allowance, child seats and any additional charges.
5. Arrange your return: For a shore excursion, request a return transfer at a specific time rather than relying on last-minute transportation.
6. Confirm the meeting point: Follow the driver’s instructions for a safe pickup location outside Kotor Cruise Port near the Sea Gate.
7. Meet your driver: Identify the vehicle and driver, confirm the destination and load any luggage or travel equipment.
8. Travel to Budva: Follow the main road south from Kotor toward Budva, passing through the coastal hills.
9. Explore the destination: Visit Budva Old Town, stroll along the marina and enjoy nearby viewpoints or beaches if your schedule allows.
10. Meet your return driver: Use the agreed pickup location. If your itinerary has changed, contact the operator well before your return time.
11. Return to Kotor Cruise Port: Travel back to the ship with enough time for road traffic, security procedures and any required tender transfer.

Getting to the main departure points (Kotor Cruise Port / Private Driver Meeting Area)

• Kotor Cruise Terminal: Leave the ship and follow signs toward the main passenger exit.
• Kotor Sea Gate: A common meeting landmark for prearranged transportation and local taxis.
• Port Waterfront Road: Private drivers may use designated passenger pickup areas along the waterfront instead of entering the restricted pier.
• Budva Old Town: Ask your driver to use a nearby accessible drop-off point because the medieval center is pedestrianized.
• Budva Marina: A practical location for meeting your return vehicle after sightseeing.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #4 — Rental Car or Self-Drive (Most Flexible for Sightseeing)

Flexible itinerary Coastal viewpoints Parking & traffic

• Overview: Rent a car in Kotor and drive independently to Budva. This option is best for travelers who want to visit beaches, viewpoints or additional destinations along the Budva Riviera instead of traveling directly to the Old Town.
• Distance: Approximately 23–25 km for a direct drive, depending on the road and destination.
• Driving time: Approximately 30–50 minutes under normal conditions, excluding rental pickup, parking and sightseeing stops.
• How to book (with price): Search for rental cars in Kotor on Booking.com. Budget approximately €30–80+ per day for an economy or compact vehicle as a planning estimate, although peak-season rates may be higher. Insurance, deposits, fuel and parking can increase the total cost.
• Rental pickup: Car rental offices may be located in central Kotor, Tivat or other nearby areas. Confirm the exact collection address and whether delivery near the cruise terminal is available.
• Main driving route: Follow road signs south from Kotor toward Budva, using the main regional road through the hills and coastal approaches.
• Parking: Budva Old Town is pedestrianized and parking can be limited during summer. Look for public parking near the marina, town center or other designated parking facilities.
• Possible stops: Jaz Beach, Becici and viewpoints toward Sveti Stefan are popular additions, depending on your available time. Some are beyond central Budva and will increase the total driving distance.
• Driving requirements: Carry your valid driving license, passport and rental documentation. Confirm any international driving permit requirements with the rental supplier.
• Pros: Freedom to explore beaches and viewpoints, flexible departure times and easy access to locations outside Budva. Cons: Rental paperwork, parking challenges, fuel costs and heavy summer traffic.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva

1. Compare rental vehicles: Check available rental cars in Kotor, comparing pickup locations, included insurance, mileage limits and deposit requirements.
2. Choose a convenient pickup point: Select a rental office in or near Kotor and confirm how to reach it from the cruise terminal.
3. Leave the cruise port: After disembarking, walk or take a short local taxi to the rental collection address.
4. Complete the rental process: Present your required documents, inspect the vehicle and photograph any existing damage.
5. Set your destination: Enter Budva Old Town or an appropriate public parking area into Google Maps or another navigation application.
6. Drive south from Kotor: Follow the main road toward Budva, allowing extra time for traffic and narrow road sections.
7. Consider a beach stop: If your schedule allows, visit Jaz Beach or another coastal attraction before arriving in central Budva.
8. Park in Budva: Use a designated car park outside the pedestrianized Old Town. Note parking fees and your vehicle’s location.
9. Explore Budva Old Town: Walk through the medieval streets, visit the Citadel area and enjoy the marina and nearby beaches.
10. Return to Kotor: Leave Budva with sufficient time to navigate traffic, refuel if required and return the rental vehicle.
11. Complete the return process: Hand back the rental car, confirm there are no outstanding charges and travel back to Kotor Cruise Port before your ship’s departure.

Getting to the main departure points (Kotor Rental Offices / Port Pickup)

• Kotor Cruise Port: Located close to the Old Town and accessible to central Kotor rental offices by walking or a short taxi ride.
• Kotor Rental Car Offices: Confirm the exact address, opening hours and pickup procedure before making a reservation.
• Kotor Waterfront: Some rental companies may offer vehicle delivery near approved public parking or roadside locations.
• Budva Public Parking: Choose a designated parking facility near the Old Town or marina rather than attempting to enter pedestrian streets.
• Jaz Beach: Located west of Budva and suitable as an optional coastal stop when driving.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #5 — Guided Shore Excursion (Best for Cruise Sightseeing)

Cruise-friendly Guided sightseeing Advance booking advised

• Overview: Join a guided excursion from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva, potentially including Budva Old Town, Jaz Beach, Sveti Stefan viewpoints or other attractions along the Budva Riviera. Tours can be arranged privately or as small-group excursions.
• Travel time: Approximately 30–50 minutes each way by vehicle under normal road conditions.
• Total tour duration: Usually approximately 3–5 hours round-trip, depending on the itinerary, sightseeing stops and traffic.
• How to book (with price): Search for Kotor to Budva tours on GetYourGuide or Budva sightseeing excursions on Klook. Group tours may cost approximately €35–80+ per person, while private tours can cost €100–250+ per group, depending on the itinerary and inclusions. Confirm the actual departure point, as not every listing includes cruise port pickup.
• Tour types: Options may include private sightseeing by car, minivan excursions, coastal photography stops or guided walking tours in Budva.
• Possible stops: Budva Old Town, Citadel area, Budva Marina, Jaz Beach, Becici and Sveti Stefan viewpoints, depending on the tour.
• Pickup: Private excursions may meet cruise passengers near Kotor’s Sea Gate or another agreed location just outside the port.
• Return arrangements: Provide your ship’s all-aboard deadline and request an itinerary that returns to Kotor with a comfortable time buffer.
• What to confirm: Check whether your booking includes vehicle transport, a guide, entrance fees, parking, food and any optional stops.
• Pros: Organized transport, historical commentary, efficient sightseeing and convenient planning for cruise passengers. Cons: Higher cost than the bus, fixed itineraries on group tours and possible delays in heavy traffic.

Step-by-step: Guided Shore Excursion from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva

1. Check your cruise schedule: Confirm your ship’s arrival time, planned disembarkation arrangements and all-aboard deadline.
2. Search for suitable tours: Compare Budva excursions departing from Kotor on GetYourGuide and select a tour that fits your port call.
3. Check the meeting point: Confirm whether the tour includes pickup at Kotor Cruise Port or begins elsewhere in central Kotor.
4. Choose your itinerary: Decide whether you want to focus on Budva Old Town or include coastal attractions such as Jaz Beach or Sveti Stefan viewpoints.
5. Review the total cost: Compare guided services, vehicle type, entrance fees, group size, cancellation rules and any optional stops. You can also check alternative Montenegro tour listings on Klook.
6. Confirm your ship information: Provide the cruise ship’s name and arrival details so the operator understands your boarding deadline.
7. Disembark and meet your guide: Follow the operator’s instructions to the agreed meeting point outside Kotor Cruise Port, commonly near the Sea Gate.
8. Travel to Budva: Drive south through the coastal hills toward the Budva Riviera.
9. Explore Budva Old Town: Walk through the medieval streets, visit historic landmarks and enjoy the waterfront. For independent sightseeing afterward, consult the official Budva Tourism Organization for attractions and visitor information.
10. Visit additional viewpoints: Depending on the tour, stop at Jaz Beach, Becici or a viewpoint overlooking Sveti Stefan.
11. Return to Kotor: Rejoin your guide at the designated meeting point and travel back toward the cruise port.
12. Reboard your ship: Complete port security procedures and any required tender transfer before the cruise line’s deadline.

Getting to the main departure points (Kotor Cruise Port / Shore Excursion Pickup)

• Kotor Cruise Pier: Disembark at the port or use the cruise tender service if the ship is anchored offshore.
• Kotor Sea Gate: A common meeting landmark for independent tour operators and private guides.
• Port Excursion Area: Some tours may use designated coach or minivan pickup zones outside the cruise terminal.
• Budva Old Town: Most excursions include a stop near the medieval walls, allowing visitors to explore the pedestrianized historic district.
• Jaz Beach: A possible stop on tours combining historic Budva with coastal scenery.
• Sveti Stefan Viewpoints: An optional scenic stop east of Budva, depending on the itinerary and cruise schedule.
• Return Pickup: Confirm the exact location and time where your tour vehicle will collect you before returning to Kotor.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Kotor Cruise Port to Budva)

How far is Budva from Kotor Cruise Port?
Budva is approximately 23–25 km from Kotor Cruise Port by road, depending on your exact destination. Driving normally takes around 30–50 minutes, while buses generally take 30–60 minutes between Kotor and Budva bus stations. Heavy summer traffic can increase these times.

What is the cheapest way to get from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva?
The direct intercity bus is generally the cheapest option. Tickets commonly cost approximately €4–6 one-way per adult, with possible additional station or luggage fees. Kotor Bus Station is about 10–15 minutes on foot from the cruise port, and Budva Old Town is another 15–20 minutes’ walk from Budva Bus Station.

Can I walk from Kotor Cruise Port to the bus station?
Yes. Kotor Bus Station is approximately 800 m–1 km south of the main cruise port entrance, normally a 10–15-minute walk. Follow the road from the port area near the Sea Gate toward the station. Travelers with mobility difficulties may prefer a short taxi journey.

How much does a taxi from Kotor Cruise Port to Budva cost?
A licensed taxi generally costs approximately €25–45 one-way per vehicle as a planning estimate, although cruise port pickups, premium vehicles and peak-season demand can increase the fare. Confirm the final price before departing or use a pre-booked transfer with a fixed quote. Uber and Bolt are not available in Montenegro.

Can I visit Budva from Kotor Cruise Port in one day?
Yes. Budva is a practical half-day shore excursion from Kotor. Allow approximately 3–5 hours for the return journey and sightseeing, including time to explore Budva Old Town and the waterfront. Add more time for beaches, Sveti Stefan viewpoints or heavy road traffic. Cruise passengers should leave a generous buffer before their ship’s all-aboard deadline.

Is there a direct ferry or train from Kotor to Budva?
There is no regular passenger train or dependable scheduled ferry service connecting Kotor Cruise Port directly with Budva. Road transportation is the practical choice. Travelers can use intercity buses, licensed taxis, private transfers, rental cars or organized shore excursions.

This guide was researched and written by Jacob, and it was last updated on October 26, 2026. 0 people found this post useful.

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